U.S. patent application number 16/266280 was filed with the patent office on 2019-11-14 for sensor element for a local luminaire area control system.
The applicant listed for this patent is TE CONNECTIVITY CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Matthew Edward Mostoller, Richard George Stuby, JR..
Application Number | 20190350065 16/266280 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 68463476 |
Filed Date | 2019-11-14 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190350065 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stuby, JR.; Richard George ;
et al. |
November 14, 2019 |
SENSOR ELEMENT FOR A LOCAL LUMINAIRE AREA CONTROL SYSTEM
Abstract
A sensor element for a luminaire local area (LLA) control system
includes a receptacle connector, a lighting sensor connector, and
an environmental sensor connector arranged in a connector stack
coupled to each other and stacked on a light fixture. The
receptacle connector includes power contacts for electrical
connection with power wires for powering the light fixture. The
lighting sensor connector is separate and discrete from the
receptacle connector and includes a photocontrol component for
sensing an ambient light exterior of the sensor element. The
environmental sensor connector is separate and discrete from the
lighting sensor connector and includes an environmental sensor
component for sensing an environmental characteristic other than
ambient light exterior of the sensor element for use by the LLA
control system.
Inventors: |
Stuby, JR.; Richard George;
(New Tripoli, PA) ; Mostoller; Matthew Edward;
(Hummelstown, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
TE CONNECTIVITY CORPORATION |
Berwyn |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
68463476 |
Appl. No.: |
16/266280 |
Filed: |
February 4, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62670098 |
May 11, 2018 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H05B 47/115 20200101;
F21V 23/06 20130101; H01R 13/052 20130101; F21V 23/045 20130101;
F21S 8/08 20130101; H05B 47/19 20200101; H05B 47/16 20200101; F21W
2131/103 20130101; H01R 13/514 20130101; F21V 23/002 20130101; F21V
23/006 20130101; H05B 47/11 20200101; F21V 23/0471 20130101; H05B
47/105 20200101; H01R 13/6683 20130101; H05B 47/175 20200101; H01R
2105/00 20130101; F21V 23/0464 20130101; H01R 31/065 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H05B 37/02 20060101
H05B037/02; H01R 13/05 20060101 H01R013/05; F21V 23/06 20060101
F21V023/06; F21V 23/00 20060101 F21V023/00; F21V 23/04 20060101
F21V023/04 |
Claims
1. A sensor element for a local luminaire area (LLA) control system
comprising: a receptacle connector including a receptacle connector
housing having a base configured to be mounted to a light fixture
and a receptacle connector mating interface opposite the base, the
receptacle connector holding power contacts for electrical
connection with power wires for powering the light fixture; a
lighting sensor connector separate and discrete from the receptacle
connector, the lighting sensor connector including a lighting
sensor connector housing having a base configured to be mounted to
the receptacle connector mating interface, the lighting sensor
connector having a lighting sensor connector mating interface
opposite the base, the lighting sensor connector having a
photocontrol component for sensing an ambient light exterior of the
sensor element for use by the LLA control system for controlling
the light fixture; and an environmental sensor connector separate
and discrete from the lighting sensor connector, the environmental
sensor connector including an environmental sensor connector
housing having a base configured to be mounted to the lighting
sensor connector mating interface, the environmental sensor
connector having an environmental sensor component for sensing an
environmental characteristic other than ambient light exterior of
the sensor element for use by the LLA control system; wherein the
receptacle connector, the lighting sensor connector and the
environmental sensor connector are arranged in a connector stack
coupled to each other and stacked on the light fixture.
2. The LLA control system of claim 1, wherein the receptacle
connector is a twist lock connector, the lighting sensor connector
is a twist lock connector configured to be rotatably coupled to the
receptacle connector, the environmental sensor connector is a twist
lock connector configured to be rotatably coupled to the lighting
sensor connector.
3. The LLA control system of claim 1, wherein the lighting sensor
connector includes power contacts electrically connected to the
power contacts of the receptacle connector.
4. The LLA control system of claim 3, wherein the power contacts of
the receptacle connector are twist lock power contacts and the
power contacts of the lighting sensor connector are twist lock
power contacts.
5. The LLA control system of claim 3, wherein the environmental
sensor connector includes power contacts electrically connected to
the power contacts of the lighting sensor connector.
6. The LLA control system of claim 1, wherein the environmental
sensor connector is a 1.sup.st environmental sensor connector, the
sensor element further comprising a 2.sup.nd environmental sensor
connector arranged in the connector stack between the lighting
sensor connector and the 1.sup.st environmental sensor
connector.
7. The LLA control system of claim 1, further comprising a
communication module operably coupled to at least one of the
photocontrol component or the environmental sensor component to
communicate sensor data from the corresponding photocontrol
component or the environmental sensor component to at least one of
a light fixture communication device in the light fixture or a
remote communication device remote from the light fixture.
8. The LLA control system of claim 7, wherein the communication
module is configured for contactless communication with the at
least one of the light fixture communication device or the remote
communication device.
9. The LLA control system of claim 7, wherein the communication
module is contained in either the lighting sensor connector housing
or the environmental sensor connector housing.
10. The LLA control system of claim 7, wherein the sensor element
further comprises a communication connector having a communication
connector housing holding the communication module, the
communication connector being coupled to at least one of the
receptacle connector, the lighting sensor connector and the
environmental sensor connector.
11. The LLA control system of claim 1, wherein the receptacle
connector comprises signal contacts at the receptacle connector
mating interface, the lighting sensor connector having signal
contacts at the base electrically connected to the signal contacts
of the receptacle connector.
12. The LLA control system of claim 11, wherein the environmental
sensor connector comprises signal contacts at the base electrically
connected to the signal contacts of the lighting sensor
connector.
13. The LLA control system of claim 1, wherein the receptacle
connector housing, the lighting sensor connector housing and the
environmental sensor connector housing are cylindrical having
substantially equal outer diameters.
14. The LLA control system of claim 1, further comprising a
receptacle connector seal at the base of the receptacle connector
housing configured to seal to the light fixture, the lighting
sensor connector includes a lighting sensor connector seal at the
base of the lighting sensor connector housing configured to seal to
the receptacle connector, the environmental sensor connector
includes an environmental sensor connector seal at the base of the
environmental sensor connector housing configured to seal to the
lighting sensor connector.
15. The LLA control system of claim 1, wherein the receptacle
connector includes a power management circuit coupled to the power
contacts having a surge protection component and an overvoltage
component.
16. The LLA control system of claim 1, further comprising an outer
housing having a cavity receiving the connector stack, the outer
housing having a mating interface configured to be seated on the
light fixture.
17. The LLA control system of claim 1, further comprising a capping
connector arranged at a top of the connector stack to cap and seal
the connector stack.
18. The LLA control system of claim 1, wherein the environmental
sensor connector includes a 2.sup.nd environmental sensor component
sensing a different environmental characteristic exterior of the
sensor element for use by the LLA control system.
19. A sensor element for a local luminaire area (LLA) control
system comprising: a receptacle connector including a receptacle
connector housing having a base configured to be mounted to a light
fixture and a receptacle connector mating interface opposite the
base, the receptacle connector holding power contacts for
electrical connection with power wires for powering the light
fixture, the power contacts being twist-lock power contacts; a
lighting sensor connector separate and discrete from the receptacle
connector, the lighting sensor connector including a lighting
sensor connector housing having a base configured to be mounted to
the receptacle connector mating interface, the lighting sensor
connector having a lighting sensor connector mating interface
opposite the base, the lighting sensor connector having a
photocontrol component for sensing an ambient light exterior of the
sensor element, the lighting sensor connector having twist-lock
power contacts twist-lock coupled to the twist-lock power contacts
of the receptacle connector for controlling the light fixture based
on the sensed ambient light by the photocontrol component; and an
environmental sensor connector separate and discrete from the
lighting sensor connector, the environmental sensor connector
including an environmental sensor connector housing having a base
configured to be mounted to the lighting sensor connector mating
interface, the environmental sensor connector having an
environmental sensor component for sensing an environmental
characteristic other than ambient light exterior of the sensor
element and generating environmental sensor data relating to the
sensed environmental characteristic; wherein the receptacle
connector, the lighting sensor connector and the environmental
sensor connector are arranged in a connector stack coupled to each
other and stacked on the light fixture.
20. A sensor element for a local luminaire area (LLA) control
system comprising: a receptacle connector including a receptacle
connector housing having a base configured to be mounted to a light
fixture and a receptacle connector mating interface opposite the
base, the receptacle connector holding power contacts for
electrical connection with power wires for powering the light
fixture, the receptacle connector housing having mating contacts at
the receptacle connector mating interface; a sensor connector
separate and discrete from the receptacle connector, the sensor
connector including a sensor connector housing having a base
configured to be mounted to the receptacle connector mating
interface, the sensor connector having a sensor connector mating
interface opposite the base, the sensor connector having a sensor
component for sensing an environmental characteristic exterior of
the sensor connector, the sensor connector having lower contacts at
the base being electrically coupled to the mating contacts of the
receptacle connector, the sensor connector having upper contacts at
the sensor connector mating interface; and a capping connector
separate and discrete from the sensor connector, the capping
connector having a capping connector housing having a base
configured to be mounted to the sensor connector mating interface,
the capping connector covering the sensor connector mating
interface and the upper contacts; wherein the receptacle connector,
the sensor connector and the capping connector are arranged in a
connector stack configured to be stacked on the light fixture.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims benefit to U.S. Provisional
Application No. 62/670,098 filed May 11, 2018, titled "SENSOR
ELEMENT FOR A LOCAL LUMINAIRE AREA CONTROL SYSTEM", the subject
matter of which is herein incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The subject matter herein relates generally to a local
luminaire area control system for outdoor lighting control.
[0003] On outdoor lighting, notably street lights and parking lot
lights, photocontrol components and the corresponding mating
receptacles are typically used to turn the lights on and off based
upon the ambient light from the sun. Some light fixtures support
dimming to variably control the light fixture based on the ambient
light levels, time of day. There is a trend to provide programmable
functions to the light fixtures based on sensors and programmable
controls other than ambient light, such as, detected nearby
pedestrian motion. To accommodate these functions, the lighting
control receptacles provide both a light sensor and one or more
environmental sensors in a sensor device on the light fixture.
Different control systems require different mixes of functionality
necessitating multiple product configurations having a different
arrangement of sensors in the sensor device. When a different
configuration is needed or desired a different sensor device is
needed to replace the existing sensor device.
[0004] A need remains for a sensor element that allows easy control
and modification of sensor components in a sensor device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0005] In one embodiment, a sensor element for a local luminaire
area (LLA) control system is provided including a receptacle
connector, a lighting sensor connector, and an environmental sensor
connector arranged in a connector stack coupled to each other and
stacked on a light fixture. The receptacle connector includes a
receptacle connector housing having a base configured to be mounted
to the light fixture and a receptacle connector mating interface
opposite the base. The receptacle connector holds power contacts
for electrical connection with power wires for powering the light
fixture. The lighting sensor connector is separate and discrete
from the receptacle connector and includes a lighting sensor
connector housing having a base configured to be mounted to the
receptacle connector mating interface. The lighting sensor
connector has a lighting sensor connector mating interface opposite
the base. The lighting sensor connector has a photocontrol
component for sensing an ambient light exterior of the sensor
element for use by the LLA control system for controlling the light
fixture. The environmental sensor connector is separate and
discrete from the lighting sensor connector including an
environmental sensor connector housing having a base configured to
be mounted to the lighting sensor connector mating interface. The
environmental sensor connector has an environmental sensor
component for sensing an environmental characteristic other than
ambient light exterior of the sensor element for use by the LLA
control system.
[0006] In another embodiment, a sensor element for a local
luminaire area (LLA) control system is provided including a
receptacle connector including a receptacle connector housing
having a base configured to be mounted to a light fixture and a
receptacle connector mating interface opposite the base. The
receptacle connector holds power contacts for electrical connection
with power wires for powering the light fixture being twist-lock
power contacts. The sensor element includes a lighting sensor
connector separate and discrete from the receptacle connector. The
lighting sensor connector includes a lighting sensor connector
housing having a base configured to be mounted to the receptacle
connector mating interface and a lighting sensor connector mating
interface opposite the base. The lighting sensor connector has a
photocontrol component for sensing an ambient light exterior of the
sensor element and twist-lock power contacts twist-lock coupled to
the twist-lock power contacts of the receptacle connector for
controlling the light fixture based on the sensed ambient light by
the photocontrol component. The sensor element includes an
environmental sensor connector separate and discrete from the
lighting sensor connector. The environmental sensor connector
includes an environmental sensor connector housing having a base
configured to be mounted to the lighting sensor connector mating
interface. The environmental sensor connector has an environmental
sensor component for sensing an environmental characteristic other
than ambient light exterior of the sensor element and generating
environmental sensor data relating to the sensed environmental
characteristic. The receptacle connector, the lighting sensor
connector and the environmental sensor connector are arranged in a
connector stack coupled to each other and stacked on the light
fixture.
[0007] In a further embodiment, a sensor element for a local
luminaire area (LLA) control system is provided including a
receptacle connector, a sensor connector and a capping connector
arranged in a connector stack configured to be stacked on a light
fixture. The receptacle connector includes a receptacle connector
housing having a base configured to be mounted to a light fixture
and a receptacle connector mating interface opposite the base. The
receptacle connector holds power contacts for electrical connection
with power wires for powering the light fixture and mating contacts
at the receptacle connector mating interface. The sensor connector
is separate and discrete from the receptacle connector and includes
a sensor connector housing having a base configured to be mounted
to the receptacle connector mating interface and a sensor connector
mating interface opposite the base. The sensor connector has a
sensor component for sensing an environmental characteristic
exterior of the sensor connector. The sensor connector has lower
contacts at the base being electrically coupled to the mating
contacts of the receptacle connector and upper contacts at the
sensor connector mating interface. The capping connector is
separate and discrete from the sensor connector and has a capping
connector housing having a base configured to be mounted to the
sensor connector mating interface. The capping connector covers the
sensor connector mating interface and the upper contacts.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 illustrates a local luminaire area (LLA) control
system having a sensor element formed in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of the sensor element formed in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the sensor element within a
light fixture.
[0011] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the sensor element formed in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a power management connector
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an intermediate connector in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0014] FIG. 1 illustrates a local luminaire area (LLA) control
system 10 formed in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The
LLA control system 10 includes a sensor element 100 operably
coupled to a light fixture control circuit 20 for controlling a
light fixture 104. The sensor element 100 is mounted to a housing
102 of the light fixture 104, such as a roadway light, a parking
lot light, a street light, and the like, or to another component,
such as the pole or other structure supporting the light fixture
104, or to another component unassociated with the light fixture,
such as a parking meter, a telephone pole or another structure. The
sensor element 100 is used to deploy sensing, actuation and/or
control solutions for public utility, municipality and/or
commercial management systems, such as a Smart City or a Smart Grid
infrastructure. The sensor element 100 provide sensing, actuation
and/or control of the light fixture 104 for energy management
and/or security functions. In an exemplary embodiment, the light
fixture 104 and/or the sensor element 100 may be networked within
the LLA control system 10 by means of wireless communication with
each other and/or with one or more remote monitoring devices and/or
with a central monitoring system (e.g., using a star network,
point-to-point network, mesh network, bus network, and the
like).
[0015] The sensor element 100 includes a connector stack 106 having
a plurality of separate and discrete connectors 108 coupled
together to form the connector stack 106. The connector stack 106
has more than two connectors 108, each serving a different
function. For example, the connectors 108 may hold different
sensors for sensing different environmental characteristics
exterior of the sensor element 100. Optionally, one or more of the
connectors 108 may hold a communication module for communicating
with each other, with a communication device in the light fixture
104 or with a communication device remote from the light fixture
104. Optionally, one or more of the connectors 108 may include
power contacts for controlling one or more lighting functions of
the light fixture 104. Optionally, one or more of the connectors
108 may be sealed to the environment to seal the connector stack
106. In various embodiments, the connectors 108 are interchangeable
within the connector stack 106 to change the functionality of the
sensor element 100. Different sensor elements may include different
combinations of connectors 108 to perform different functions or
tasks, such as monitoring or sensing different environmental
characteristics. The connectors 108 may have common mating
interfaces at the upper and/or lower surfaces for mating and
stacking in any arrangement. The connectors 108 may have common
shapes, dimensions, and the like for stacking. For example, the
connectors 108 may be cylindrical having substantially equal outer
diameters for forming a uniformly cylindrical sensor element;
however, other shapes are possible in alternative embodiments.
[0016] In an exemplary embodiment, one or more of the connectors
108 holds sensors that are used to control the light fixture 104,
such as for turning the light fixture 104 on or off depending upon
light levels, for dimming control of the light fixture 104, or for
controlling other functions. For example, the sensor may be a
photocontrol component configured to monitor and the sense ambient
light levels around the sensor element 100, such as a photocell or
light sensor used to detect ambient light from the sun. Other types
of sensors may be used to control the lighting operation of the
light fixture 104, such as object identification sensors, proximity
sensors, occupancy sensors, motion sensors, timing sensors, and the
like for turning the light fixture ON/OFF and/or dimming control
based on presence of a person or object. In an exemplary
embodiment, connectors 108 having other types of sensors may be
used within the connector stack 106, such as pollution sensors,
noise sensors, such as to monitor for a gun shot, weather sensors,
such as for measuring barometric pressure, humidity, temperature,
and the like, or other types of sensors. The sensors may be used
for other functions other than controlling the light fixture 104,
such as remote monitoring of the environmental surroundings of the
housing 102, such as for parking monitoring, for street flow
activity monitoring, or other functions.
[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, the connectors 108 of the sensor
element 100 include a receptacle connector 110, one or more
intermediate connectors 112 and a capping connector 114 arranged in
the stacked configuration. The receptacle connector 110 defines a
bottom or base unit for mounting to the light fixture 104. The
receptacle connector 110 may hold power contacts 116 coupled to
power wires of the light fixture 104, such as for controlling
lighting of the light fixture 104 and/or for powering the sensor
element 100.
[0018] In various embodiments, the intermediate connectors 112 are
configured to be coupled to the receptacle connector 110 and are
configured to be coupled to other intermediate connectors 112 to
allow interchangeability of the intermediate connectors 112. For
example, the bottoms of the intermediate connectors 112 may have a
mating interface configured to be coupled to the receptacle
connector 110. The tops of the intermediate connectors 112 may have
a mating interface identical to the mating interface of the
receptacle connector 110 to accept mating of other intermediate
connectors 112. In other various embodiments, one of the
intermediate connectors 112 defines a base intermediate connector
configured to be mated to the receptacle connector 110, but such
base intermediate connector may include a different mating
interface than the receptacle connector 110, such as a simpler
mating interface (for example, a mating interface that does not
need to be mated to power contacts), and all of the other
intermediate connectors, also referred to as interchangeable
intermediate connectors have simpler mating interfaces for mating
with each other and with the base intermediate connector. The
intermediate connectors 112 are interchangeable to change the
functionality of the sensor element 100. The intermediate
connectors 112 include sensors for sensing the environmental
characteristics exterior of the sensor element 100. The
intermediate connector 112 houses or surrounds the corresponding
sensor(s), such as to provide environmental protection for the
sensor(s). Optionally, the intermediate connectors 112 include
contacts, such as signal contacts, power contacts, and the like
exposed at the lower and upper mating surfaces for interfacing with
other connectors (for example, the receptacle connector 110, other
intermediate connectors 112 and the capping connector 114).
[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the capping connector 114
defines the top or cap for the connector stack 106. The capping
connector 114 may be used for sealing the connector stack 106 from
the environment. For example, the capping connector 114 does not
include exposed contacts at the upper surface. Rather, the capping
connector 114 is used to cover the contacts at the upper surface of
the top-most intermediate connector 112. In an exemplary
embodiment, the capping connector 114 may have a seal at the
interface with the intermediate connector 112 directly below the
capping connector 114 to provide an environmental seal at the
mating interface therebetween. Optionally, the intermediate
connectors 112 may have seals at the mating interfaces with other
connectors 108 to provide environmental seals therebetween.
[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle connector 110 is
a twist-lock receptacle connector 110 having twist-lock socket
power contacts 116 electrically connected to the power wires, such
as being ANSI C136.x compliant power contacts. The receptacle
connector 110 may include signal contacts in addition to the power
contacts 116 for additional control and/or data transfer with other
elements, such as in the light fixture 104 and or with the
intermediate connectors 112. In an exemplary embodiment, the
intermediate connectors 112 are twist-lock intermediate connectors
112, such as being an ANSI C136.x compliant connectors. For
example, the intermediate connectors 112 may include twist-lock
blade power contacts 118 extending from the bottom configured to be
electrically connected to the twist-lock socket power contacts 116
of the receptacle connector 110. In various embodiments, the
intermediate connectors 112 may include twist-lock socket power
contacts 116 at the upper mating surface, electrically connected
with the corresponding twist-lock blade power contacts 118 at the
lower mating surface. In this manner, each of the intermediate
connectors 112 are configured to be mated to any other intermediate
connector 112 or the receptacle connector 110 by a twist-lock type
of connection. The power contacts 116, 118 may be high voltage
power contacts. Other types of contacts may be provided at the
mating interfaces for a direct, physical electrical connection
across the mating interfaces between the connectors 110, 112. The
connectors 110, 112 may be other types of connectors other than
twist-lock connectors. The connectors 110, 112 may include other
types of power contacts 116, 118 other than twist-lock contacts or
may not include any contacts but rather be contactless
connections.
[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, at least one of the intermediate
connectors 112 and/or the capping connector 114 is used for data
communication and defines a communication connector 120 configured
for communication of data from the sensor element 100 to a light
fixture communication module 125 in the light fixture 104 and/or to
a remote communication device 124. In various embodiments, the
communication connector 120 is configured for contactless
communication; however, the communication connector 120 may be
configured to communicate through signal contacts and/or wires
within the system. In the illustrated embodiment, the communication
connector 120 is the capping connector 114. However, in another
exemplary embodiment, the communication connector 120 is one of the
intermediate connectors 112. The communication connector 120
includes a communication module 122 for data communication. For
example, the communication module 122 may include one or more
processors for data communication. The communication module 122 may
include an antenna for contactless and wireless communication with
another intermediate connector 112 and/or for contactless and
wireless communication with the light fixture communication module
125 and/or for contactless and wireless communication with the
remote communication device 124; however, the communication module
122 may communicate by other means in alternative embodiments.
[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, the communication module 122
communicates wirelessly, such as through digital wireless signals,
infrared signals, capacitive communication, inductive communication
or by other types of contactless and wireless communication. Data
may be transmitted from the communication connector 120 to the
light fixture 104 or the remote device without the need for
contacts or wires. The remote communication device 124 may be
remote from the light fixture 104, such as on the ground or at a
central communication location for control of the light fixture 104
and/or for monitoring the environment around the light fixture 104,
such as pedestrian traffic, vehicle traffic, parking, or other
environmental factors.
[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, the communication connector 120
is configured for contactless communication of sensor data from the
sensors in the sensor element 100. For example, the sensor data may
relate to one or more of the environmental characteristics sensed
by the sensors in the intermediate connectors, such as the level of
ambient light exterior of the sensor element 100 when the sensor is
a photocontrol component or another type of environmental
characteristic when another type of sensor component is used.
Optionally, the sensor data may be processed by the sensor element
100 prior to being communicated by the communication connector 120.
Alternatively, the raw sensor data may be communicated by the
communication connector 120. The sensor data may be used by the LLA
control system 10 to control operation of the light fixture 104,
such as for turning on or off the light fixture 104 and/or dimming
control of the light fixture 104. The sensor data may be used by
the LLA control system 10 to control functions of other components
remote from the light fixture 104, such as by communicating the
sensor data back to a central system.
[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the communication connector 120
is configured for contactless communication of identifying data
relating to an identifying characteristic of the sensor element
100. The identifying characteristic may be based on a sensing
capability of the sensor element 100 or for one or more of the
components of the sensor element 100, such as one or more of the
intermediate connectors 112. For example, the sensing capability
may relate to the type of sensor component or sensor components
contained in the intermediate connectors 112 to identify the type
of sensing that the sensor element 100 is able to perform any type
of environmental characteristic configured to be sensed by the
sensor element 100. For example, the sensing capability may relate
to ambient light level detection, occupancy or motion detection,
weather detection, pollution detection, position detection or
another type of sensing capability depending on the type of sensor
contained within the sensor element 100. The identifying
characteristic may relate to a brand of manufacture for compliance
verification within the LLA control system 10. The identifying
characteristic may be a unique identifier of the sensor element
100, such as a product code, a barcode, a part number, an
identification number, and the like. The identifying data is used
for validation and verification that the sensor element 100, or the
various components thereof, are able to be used within the LLA
control system 10. The identifying data is used by the LLA control
system 10 to develop the system architecture from a central system
for controlling the Smart City system. The identifying data is used
by the light fixture control system to control the sensor element
100. For example, control signals may be communicated back to the
sensor element 100 to control one or more operations of the sensor
element 100 based on the sensing capabilities of the sensor element
100. The sensor element 100 may be updated or upgraded based on the
identifying data.
[0025] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the sensor element 100 formed
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment showing the receptacle
connector 110, two of the intermediate connectors 112 and the
capping connector 114 poised for mating with each other. It is
realized that any number of connectors 108 may be used in the
connector stack 106, such as by increasing or decreasing the number
of intermediate connectors 112. It is also realized that the
connector stack 106 may be provided without the capping connector
114, such as by using one of the intermediate connectors 112 as the
upper-most connector. Optionally, a cover (not shown) or other
housing element may be provided to protect the upper-most connector
or any of the other connectors (for example, an outer housing
around the entire connector stack 106.
[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, one of the intermediate
connectors 112 is used for light sensing ambient light exterior of
the sensor element 100 and may be referred to hereinafter as a
lighting sensor connector 126 and another of the intermediate
connectors 112 is used for sensing an environmental characteristic
other than ambient light exterior of the sensor element 100 and may
be referred to hereinafter as an environmental sensor connector
128. Optionally, multiple environmental sensor connectors 128 may
be used in the connector stack 106 for sensing different
environmental characteristics. In the illustrated embodiment, the
lighting sensor connector 126 is coupled to the receptacle
connector 110 and the capping connector 114 is coupled to the
environmental sensor connector 128. In the illustrated embodiment,
the capping connector 114 defines the communication connector 120
and includes the communication module 122; however, the
communication module 122 may be received in different connectors
108, such as in the lighting sensor connector 126, the
environmental sensor connector 128 and/or the receptacle connector
110 having such connector also defining the communication
connector.
[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle connector 110
includes the socket power contacts 116, each of the intermediate
connectors 112 include both the socket power contacts 116 and the
blade power contacts 118 and the capping connector 114 includes the
blade power contacts 118 for electrically connecting the various
connectors 108. Other arrangements and/or types of contacts may be
provided in alternative embodiments. Optionally, seals (not shown)
may be provided between the connectors 108 to seal the sensor
element 100 from environmental containments such as water, debris,
and the like. The capping connector 114 does not include exposed
power contacts 116 and thus is sealed at the top.
[0028] The sensor element 100 may include power wires 130 extending
from the receptacle connector 110. The power wires 130 are
terminated to corresponding power contacts 116 of the receptacle
connector 110. The power wires 130 may be power in or power out
wires bringing power to the sensor element 100 from a power source
or bringing power from the power contacts 116 to another component,
such as the light or a driver board for the light of the light
fixture 104. In other various embodiments, the sensor element 100
does not include the power wires 130 extending to/from the
receptacle connector 110, but rather the power wires 130 may extend
to other components in the light fixture 104.
[0029] The sensor element 100 may additionally or alternatively
include signal wires 132 extending from the receptacle connector
110. The signal wires 132 may be electrically connected to signal
contacts 134 of the receptacle connector 110. The signal wires 132
may be electrically connected to other components, such as part of
the light fixture control circuit 20 in the light fixture 104. The
signal wires 132 may transmit data to or from the light fixture
control circuit 20 for data communication with the sensor element
100. The signal wires 132 may be electrically connected to one or
more other components, such as a control module for controlling the
operation of the light fixture 104 or a communication module in the
light fixture 104.
[0030] Optionally, as in the illustrated embodiment, the
intermediate connectors 112 may include signal contacts 136 at the
mating interface for electrical connection to corresponding signal
contacts 134 of the receptacle connector 110. The receptacle
connector 110 and the intermediate connectors may be ANSI C136.xx
compliant connectors, such as a five position version having three
power contacts 116,118 and two signal contacts 134, 136 or a seven
position version having three power contacts 116, 118 and four
signal contacts 134, 136; however, other types of connectors may be
used in alternative embodiments. The signal contacts 134, 136 are
directly mated together at the mating interface between the
receptacle connector 110 and the intermediate connector 112. The
signal contacts 134, 136 may be leaf spring contacts or other types
of contacts. The signal contacts 136 of the lighting sensor
connector 126 are directly mated with the signal contacts 136 of
the environmental sensor connector 128 at the corresponding mating
interface. The signal contacts 134 transmit data signals between
the various connectors 108. Such data may be communicated to the
communication connector 120 and then transmitted wirelessly from
the sensor element 100, such as to the remote communication device
124. In alternative embodiments, rather than using the contacts
134, 136, the data may be communicated contactlessly, such as using
communication modules 122 in each of the connectors 108.
[0031] The receptacle connector 110 includes a receptacle connector
housing 138 extending between a top 140 and a bottom 142 opposite
the top 140. The bottom 142 defines the base of the connector stack
106 and is configured to be secured to the fixture housing 102 or
another component. The receptacle connector 110 includes a side
wall 144 between the top 140 and the bottom 142. The housing 138
holds the power contacts 116 and the signal contacts 134. In an
exemplary embodiment, the housing 138 holds a circuit board or
other circuit components defining a power management circuit 145.
For example, the power management circuit 145 may include a surge
protection component, an overvoltage protection component, an EMI
filter and/or other components. The circuit board may hold the
communication module 122. Optionally, such components may be
entirely contained within the housing 138 and protected from the
environment by the housing 138.
[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, the power contacts 116 are held
in contact channels 146 within the housing 138. Optionally, the
contact channels 146 are curved slots or openings in the housing
138 extending between the top 140 and the bottom 142. In an
exemplary embodiment, the receptacle connector 110 is cylindrical
shaped, such as to allow easy rotation of the intermediate
connector 112 relative to the receptacle connector 110 for
twist-lock mating. However, the receptacle connector 110 may have
other shapes in alternative embodiments.
[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle connector 110
includes at least one securing feature used to secure the
intermediate connector 112 relative to the receptacle connector
110. For example, the receptacle connector 110 may include a clip
or a flange to secure the intermediate connector 112 to the
receptacle connector 110. The securing feature may allow rotation
of the intermediate connector 112 relative to the receptacle
connector 110 when engaged. Other fastening methods that secure the
intermediate connector 112 to the receptacle connector 110 may be
employed, which may allow rotation of intermediate connector 112
relative to receptacle connector 110. In other various embodiments,
the interaction between the contacts 116 is used to secure the
intermediate connector 112 to the receptacle connector 110.
[0034] The lighting sensor connector 126 includes a housing 148
extending between a top 150 and a bottom 152 opposite the top 150.
The bottom 152 may define the mating interface and is configured to
be secured to the receptacle connector 110. In other embodiments,
sides of the housing 148 or other securing features may be secured
to the receptacle connector 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the
lighting sensor connector 126 is cylindrical shaped, such as to
allow easy rotation of the lighting sensor connector 126 relative
to the receptacle connector 110 for twist-lock mating. However, the
lighting sensor connector 126 may have other shapes in alternative
embodiments.
[0035] The housing 148 holds the socket power contacts 116 at the
top 150, the blade power contacts 118 at the bottom 152 and the
signal contacts 136 at the top 150 and the bottom 152. The housing
148 may hold the communication module 122. The housing 148 holds a
photocontrol component 155. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing
148 holds a circuit board 156 and various components are mounted to
the circuit board 156. For example, the contacts 116, 118, signal
contacts 136, communication module 122 and/or the photocontrol
component 155 may be mounted to the circuit board 156. The blade
power contacts 118 extend from the bottom 152 and the signal
contacts 136 are provided at the bottom 152 for mating with the
socket power contacts 116 and the signal contacts 134,
respectively, of the receptacle connector 110. The contacts 118,
136 may be arranged generally around a central axis, however the
contacts 118 and/or 136 may be at different locations in
alternative embodiments. Optionally, the contacts 118 may be curved
and fit in the curved contact channels 146 in the receptacle
connector 110 to mate with corresponding curved power contacts 116.
In an exemplary embodiment, the lighting sensor connector 126 may
be twisted or rotated to lock the contacts 118 in the receptacle
connector 110, such as in electrical contact with the contacts 116.
For example, the contacts 118 may be twist-lock contacts that are
initially loaded into the contact channels 146 in a vertical
direction and the lighting sensor connector 126 is then rotated,
such as approximately 35 degrees, to lock the contacts 118 in the
connector 110. Other types of mating arrangements between the
contacts 118 and the contacts 116 are possible in alternative
embodiments.
[0036] The photocontrol component 155 is used for sensing ambient
light and is used to control operation of the light fixture 104,
such as for turning the light fixture 104 on or off depending upon
light levels or for dimming control of the light fixture 104. For
example, the photocontrol component 155 may be a photocell
photocell or light sensor used to detect ambient light from the
sun. Optionally, the photocontrol component 155 may be mounted to
the circuit board 156 and the circuit board 156 may include
componentry for signal conditioning of the signal from the
photocontrol component 155. For example, the circuit board 156 may
have control circuitry for controlling operation of the light
fixture 104, such as including a daylight or nighttime control
circuit, a timer circuit, a dimming circuit, and the like. Data
from the photocontrol component 155 may be transmitted through the
signal contacts 136 across the mating interface with the receptacle
connector 110 or another intermediate connector 112. Alternatively,
data from the photocontrol component 155 may be transmitted through
the contactless communication module 122 across the mating
interface for control of the light fixture 104.
[0037] The environmental sensor connector 128 includes a housing
158 extending between a top 160 and a bottom 162 opposite the top
160. The bottom 162 may define the mating interface and is
configured to be secured to the lighting sensor connector 126. In
other embodiments, sides of the housing 158 or other securing
features may be secured to the lighting sensor connector 126 and/or
receptacle connector 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the
environmental sensor connector 128 is cylindrical shaped, such as
to allow easy rotation of the environmental sensor connector 128
relative to the lighting sensor connector 126 for twist-lock mating
thereto. However, the environmental sensor connector 128 may have
other shapes in alternative embodiments.
[0038] The housing 158 holds the socket power contacts 116 at the
top 160, the blade power contacts 118 at the bottom 162 and the
signal contacts 136 at the top 160 and the bottom 162. The housing
158 may hold the communication module 122. The housing 158 holds an
environmental sensor component 165. In an exemplary embodiment, the
housing 158 holds a circuit board 166 and various components are
mounted to the circuit board 166. For example, the contacts 116,
118, signal contacts 136, communication module 122 and/or the
environmental sensor component 165 may be mounted to the circuit
board 166. The blade power contacts 118 extend from the bottom 162
and the signal contacts 136 are provided at the bottom 162 for
mating with the socket power contacts 116 and the signal contacts
136, respectively, of the lighting sensor connector 126. The
contacts 118, 136 may be arranged generally around a central axis,
however the contacts 118 and/or 136 may be at different locations
in alternative embodiments. Optionally, the contacts 118 may be
curved and fit in the curved contact channels in the lighting
sensor connector 126 to mate with corresponding curved power
contacts 116. In an exemplary embodiment, the environmental sensor
connector 128 may be twisted or rotated to lock the contacts 118 in
the lighting sensor connector 126, such as in electrical contact
with the contacts 116. For example, the contacts 118 may be
twist-lock contacts that are initially loaded into the contact
channels in a vertical direction and the environmental sensor
connector 128 is then rotated, such as approximately 35 degrees, to
lock the contacts 118 in the connector 126. Other types of mating
arrangements between the contacts 118 and the contacts 116 are
possible in alternative embodiments.
[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, the lower mating interface of
the environmental sensor connector 128 is identical to the lower
mating interface of the lighting sensor connector 126 such that the
environmental sensor connector 128 and the lighting sensor
connector 126 are interchangeable. Either of the connectors 126 or
128 may be coupled to the receptacle connector 110. In an exemplary
embodiment, the upper mating interfaces of the environmental sensor
connector 128 and the lighting sensor connector 126 are identical
to each other and to the upper mating interface of the receptacle
connector 110 such that any of the receptacle connector 110, the
environmental sensor connector 128 or the lighting sensor connector
126 may be mated to another intermediate connector 112 or the
capping connector 114.
[0040] The environmental sensor component 165 is used for sensing
an environmental characteristic other than ambient light exterior
of the intermediate connector 112 in the environment exterior of
the intermediate connector 112. Optionally, the environmental
sensor component 165 may be mounted to the circuit board 166 and
the circuit board 166 may include componentry for signal
conditioning of the signal from the environmental sensor component
165. Data from the environmental sensor component 165 may be
transmitted through the signal contacts 136 across the mating
interface with the receptacle connector 110 or the capping
connector 114. Alternatively, data from the environmental sensor
component 165 may be transmitted through the contactless
communication module 122 across the mating interface.
[0041] In various embodiments, the environmental sensor component
165 may be a motion sensor or an object sensor configured to sense
movement or presence of an object, such as a person or vehicle in a
particular area. The environmental sensor component 165 may be used
for parking monitoring, for street flow activity monitoring, for
pedestrian monitoring, or other functions. The environmental sensor
component 165 may be a position sensor, such as a GPS sensor for
determining a position of the light fixture 104. The environmental
sensor component 165 may be a weather detection sensor configured
to detect one or more weather-related characteristics, such as
barometric pressure, humidity, temperature, and the like. The
environmental sensor component 165 may be a pollution sensor
configured to detect particulates of one or more types of matter.
The environmental sensor component 165 may be mounted to the
circuit board 156. In an exemplary embodiment, the environmental
sensor component 165 is electrically connected to the communication
module 122 and the communication module 122 receives signals from
the environmental sensor component 165 and wirelessly communicates
sensor data based on the received signals from the environmental
sensor component 165 with another component, such as the light
fixture 104 or the remote communication device 124. In various
other embodiments, data from the environmental sensor(s) may be
transmitted through the signal contacts 136 across the mating
interface.
[0042] The capping connector 114 includes a housing 168 extending
between a top 170 and a bottom 172 opposite the top 170. The bottom
172 may define the mating interface and is configured to be secured
to the environmental sensor connector 128; however, the capping
connector 114 may be secured to a different intermediate connector
112 in other embodiments. Optionally, sides of the housing 168 or
other securing features may be secured to the environmental sensor
connector 128, the lighting sensor connector 126 and/or receptacle
connector 110. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping connector
114 is cylindrical shaped, such as to allow easy rotation of the
environmental sensor connector 128 relative to the environmental
sensor connector 128 for twist-lock mating thereto. However, the
capping connector 114 may have other shapes in alternative
embodiments.
[0043] The housing 168 holds the blade power contacts 118 at the
bottom 172 and signal contacts 136 at the bottom 172. In various
embodiments, the housing 168 may hold the communication module 122,
thus defining the communication connector 120. The housing 168
holds a circuit board 176 and various components are mounted to the
circuit board 176. For example, the power contacts 118, signal
contacts 136, communication module 122 and/or other components may
be mounted to the circuit board 176. The blade power contacts 118
extend from the bottom 172 and the signal contacts 136 are provided
at the bottom 172 for mating with the socket power contacts 116 and
the signal contacts 136, respectively, of the environmental sensor
connector 126. The contacts 118, 136 may be arranged generally
around a central axis, however the contacts 118 and/or 136 may be
at different locations in alternative embodiments. Optionally, the
contacts 118 may be curved and fit in the curved contact channels
in the environmental sensor connector 126 to mate with
corresponding curved power contacts 116. In an exemplary
embodiment, the environmental sensor connector 128 may be twisted
or rotated to lock the contacts 118 in the environmental sensor
connector 128, such as in electrical contact with the contacts 116.
For example, the contacts 118 may be twist-lock contacts that are
initially loaded into the contact channels in a vertical direction
and the capping connector 114 is then rotated, such as
approximately 35 degrees, to lock the contacts 118 in the connector
128. Other types of mating arrangements between the contacts 118
and the contacts 116 are possible in alternative embodiments.
[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the communication module 122 is
a transceiver configured for two-way communication. For example,
data may be transmitted from the communication module 122 and
received by the communication module 122. The communication module
122 may transmit data to and/or from the sensors of the
intermediate connectors 112, such as data relating to light levels,
dimming control of the light fixture 104, or other environmental
information about the environment around the light fixture 104.
Additionally, the communication module 122 may transmit data, such
as identifying metadata about the connectors 108 to another
communication device, such as the light fixture communication
device 125 and/or the remote communication device 124. The
identifying metadata may be a serial number, location coordinates
or other metadata associated with the receptacle connector 110
and/or the light fixture 104. The metadata may be independent of
the sensor data. The metadata may be used to control operation of
the sensors, such as timing or control of operation.
[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the communication module 122
communicates wirelessly through digital wireless signals or other
types of wireless signals. For example, the communication module
122 may communicate using RF wireless communication, near-field
communication (NFC), RFID, Bluetooth low energy (BLE)
communication, ZigBee communication, RuBee communication, magnetic
communication and the like. The communication module 122 may
communicate using capacitive coupling, inductive coupling or
electromagnetic fields. The communication module 122 may be closely
aligned for efficient coupling. The communication module 122 may
communicate using line-of-sight wireless communication, such as
optical communication including infrared communication or
communication using other visible or invisible light spectrums.
[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, multiple communication module
122 may be provided in the connector stack 106 (such as in each
connector 108) to communicate with each other and/or with another
communication device, such as the remote communication device 124
and/or the light fixture communication device 125. The remote
communication device 124 may be part of a hand-held device on the
ground held by an operator. The remote communication device 124 may
be a central station monitoring data from multiple light fixtures.
The remote communication device 124 may transmit data to the
communication module 122 for remote control of the light fixture
104.
[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the connectors 108 are backwards
compatible with conventional 3-contact ANSI C136.x receptacles and
with 4-7 contact ANSI receptacles. Optionally, providing the
communication module 122 in the connector stack 106 may replace
some or all of the 1-4 low voltage signal contacts of conventional
ANSI receptacles; however, the communication module 122 may be used
in addition to the low voltage signal contacts of conventional ANSI
receptacles to enhance the amount or type of data being transmitted
between the connectors 108 and/or to other components. The
communication module 122 may be designed to communicate with
digital multiplexing capabilities or digital packet protocols for
enhanced data transfer. The signals transmitted to-from the
communication module 122 may be converted to DALI compliant levels
or may be converted to 0-10V (standard) compliant levels. The
connections to the communication devices, such as to the sensors
may be through wires, terminals, connectors, printed circuit board
connections, and the like.
[0048] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of the sensor element 100 and the
light fixture control circuit 20 within the light fixture 104. The
sensor element 100 includes the receptacle connector 110, the
intermediate connectors 112 and the communication connector 120.
The light fixture 104 includes a lighting element 180. The lighting
element 180 is powered by the power wires 130. For example, the
power wires 130 are connected to a light control module 22 of the
light fixture control circuit 20. The power wires 130 extend
to/from the receptacle connector 110 and may be electrically
connected to the contacts 116 (shown in FIG. 2). The light control
module 22 includes circuitry for supplying power to the lighting
element 180. For example, in various embodiments, the light control
module 22 includes a power driver circuit board 182. The light
control module 22 may include a switch 184 for switching the power
on or off. Optionally, the light control module 22 may control
dimming of the lighting element 180, such as by controlling the
power to the lighting element 180.
[0049] In an exemplary embodiment, the light control module 22
includes a control circuit 190, such as on a main circuit board.
The control circuit 190 controls operation of the light fixture
104. For example, the control circuit 190 may control operation of
the switch 184. The control circuit 190 may be connected to the
power driver circuit board 182 by wires. Alternatively, the control
circuit 190 may be connected to the power driver circuit board 182
wirelessly. In other various embodiments, the control circuit 190
and the power driver circuit board 182 may be on the same circuit
board and connected by traces.
[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the control circuit 190 includes
the light fixture communication module 125. The control circuit 190
receives inputs from the sensor element 100, such as from the
sensor contacts 136 and/or the communication connector 120, and
provides outputs, such as to the power driver circuit board 182. In
various embodiments, the control circuit 190 is electrically
connected to the signal wires 132, which are electrically connected
to the sensor element 100. In other various embodiments, the
control circuit 190 has contactless communication with the
communication connector 120. As such, the control circuit 190
receives data from the sensor element 100. The data may be used to
control operation of the light fixture 104. The data may be used to
control other functions. The data may be further transmitted to
another communication device, such as the remote communication
device 124, such as for parking or traffic monitoring.
[0051] The light fixture control circuit 20 is used for controlling
various functions of the light fixture 104 and the control system
10. For example, the light control module 22 of the light fixture
control circuit 20 is used for controlling the lighting element 180
of the light fixture 104, such as ON/OFF, dimming or other
functions. The light control module 22 switches and controls power
to the lighting element 180. The light fixture communication module
125 of the light fixture control circuit 20 is used for
communication with the sensor element 100 and/or with the remote
communication module 124.
[0052] In an exemplary embodiment, the light fixture control
circuit 20 includes a circuit board having one or more circuits for
controlling the operation of the LLA control system 10. The light
fixture control circuit 20 may include one or more processors.
Optionally, the light fixture control circuit 20 may include a
central processing unit (CPU), one or more microprocessors, a
graphics processing unit (GPU), or any other electronic component
capable of processing inputted data according to specific logical
instructions. Optionally, the light fixture control circuit 20 may
include and/or represent one or more hardware circuits or circuitry
that include, are connected with, or that both include and are
connected with, one or more processors, controllers, and/or other
hardware logic-based devices. Additionally or alternatively, the
light fixture control circuit 20 may execute instructions stored on
a tangible and non-transitory computer readable medium (e.g., the
memory).
[0053] As used herein, the term "computer," "control circuit,"
"circuit," or "module" may include any processor-based or
microprocessor-based system including systems using
microcontrollers, reduced instruction set computers (RISC), ASICs,
logic circuits, and any other circuit or processor capable of
executing the functions described herein. The above examples are
exemplary only, and are thus not intended to limit in any way the
definition and/or meaning of the term "control circuit".
[0054] The circuit or module executes a set of instructions that
are stored in one or more storage elements, in order to process
input data. The storage elements may also store data or other
information as desired or needed. The storage element may be in the
form of an information source or a physical memory element within a
processing machine.
[0055] The set of instructions may include various commands that
instruct the computer, control circuit, module and/or circuit to
perform specific operations such as the methods and processes of
the various embodiments. The set of instructions may be in the form
of a software program. The software may be in various forms such as
system software or application software and which may be embodied
as a tangible and non-transitory computer readable medium. Further,
the software may be in the form of a collection of separate
programs or modules, a program module within a larger program or a
portion of a program module. The software also may include modular
programming in the form of object-oriented programming. The
processing of input data by the processing machine may be in
response to operator commands, or in response to results of
previous processing, or in response to a request made by another
processing machine.
[0056] As used herein, a structure, limitation, or element that is
"configured to" perform a task or operation is particularly
structurally formed, constructed, or adapted in a manner
corresponding to the task or operation. For purposes of clarity and
the avoidance of doubt, an object that is merely capable of being
modified to perform the task or operation is not "configured to"
perform the task or operation as used herein. Instead, the use of
"configured to" as used herein denotes structural adaptations or
characteristics, and denotes structural requirements of any
structure, limitation, or element that is described as being
"configured to" perform the task or operation. For example, a
control unit, circuit, processor, or computer that is "configured
to" perform a task or operation may be understood as being
particularly structured to perform the task or operation (e.g.,
having one or more programs or instructions stored thereon or used
in conjunction therewith tailored or intended to perform the task
or operation, and/or having an arrangement of processing circuitry
tailored or intended to perform the task or operation). For the
purposes of clarity and the avoidance of doubt, a general purpose
computer (which may become "configured to" perform the task or
operation if appropriately programmed) is not "configured to"
perform a task or operation unless or until specifically programmed
or structurally modified to perform the task or operation.
[0057] As used herein, the terms "software" and "firmware" are
interchangeable, and include any computer program stored in memory
for execution by a computer, including RAM memory, ROM memory,
EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) memory.
The above memory types are exemplary only, and are thus not
limiting as to the types of memory usable for storage of a computer
program.
[0058] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the sensor element 100 formed
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment showing the receptacle
connector 110, three of the intermediate connectors 112 and the
communication connector 120 poised for mating with each other.
[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector stack 106
includes a power management connector 200 as the lower-most
intermediate connector 112 configured to be coupled to the
receptacle connector 110. The power management connector 200
includes the power management circuit 145 configured to be coupled
to the power contacts 116 of the receptacle connector 110. The
power management circuit 145 may include a surge protection
component, an overvoltage protection component, an EMI filter
and/or other components.
[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, the connector stack 106
includes the environmental sensor connector 128 configured to be
coupled to the power management connector 200 and the lighting
sensor connector 126 configured to be coupled to the environmental
sensor connector 128. The communication connector 120 is configured
to be coupled to the lighting sensor connector 126. Other
arrangements of the connectors 108 are possible in alternative
embodiments. The communication connector 120 at the top of the
connector stack 106 may define the capping connector 114 used to
close and seal the connector stack 106.
[0061] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the power management connector
200 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The power
management circuit 145 includes a line-in circuit 202 connected to
one of the power contacts 116 and a line-out circuit 204 connected
to another power contact 116. The power management circuit 145
includes a surge protection component 206, an overvoltage
protection component 208 and an EMI filter 210. The components are
configured to be coupled to corresponding power contacts 116 and
power contacts 118. The power management circuit 145 may be
connected to another intermediate connector 112 mated to the upper
mating interface of the power management connector 200.
[0062] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of one of the intermediate
connector 112 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. The
intermediate connector 112 includes the power contacts 118 at the
bottom, but does not include the power contacts 118 at the top. The
upper mating interface includes a plurality of the signal contacts
136. Other intermediate connectors 112 coupled to the illustrated
intermediate connector 112 would not include the power contacts
118, but rather would have signal contacts arranged in a
complementary interface as the upper mating interface for
electrical connection to the illustrated intermediate connector
112.
[0063] It is to be understood that the above description is
intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the
above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used in
combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be
made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings
of the invention without departing from its scope. Dimensions,
types of materials, orientations of the various components, and the
number and positions of the various components described herein are
intended to define parameters of certain embodiments, and are by no
means limiting and are merely exemplary embodiments. Many other
embodiments and modifications within the spirit and scope of the
claims will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing
the above description. The scope of the invention should,
therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims,
along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are
entitled. In the appended claims, the terms "including" and "in
which" are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective
terms "comprising" and "wherein." Moreover, in the following
claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used
merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical
requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the
following claims are not written in means-plus-function format and
are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
112(f), unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the
phrase "means for" followed by a statement of function void of
further structure.
* * * * *